I’m Jonathan and I’m a 14-year-old Jew. Like most Jewish people, I’ve faced antisemitism. I am calling for education about antisemitism to be made mandatory in British schools because I believe this would tackle antisemitism and secure a long-term future for Jewish people in the UK. Signing this petition is crucial because it calls for mandatory education on antisemitism in UK schools. 

Antisemitism currently impacts and affects many Jews in the UK and the current efforts by the government to address antisemitism education in the UK are insufficient and fall short of what is needed to combat this pressing issue and as a young Jew, I can see this. Whilst schools can choose to teach about antisemitism, the majority do not and the government needs to ensure that they teach about it.

After experiencing antisemitism in school, I worked with my school to educate students about it, and this resulted in a huge reduction in antisemitism. At the synagogue I go to, the Rabbi asked the youth group how many of us had experienced antisemitism. Every single person put their hand up. Every single one of us has been discriminated against purely because we are Jewish. It is clear that antisemitism affects so many Jewish people in our country, and it is time that we work together to stamp out this hatred of Jewish people.

I’m not proposing a huge change to the education system – simply one mandatory lesson for all students, to learn about modern-day antisemitism. This is what was taught at my school, and this is what reduced antisemitism. Education is key to rooting out antisemitism, and the government must ensure that students learn about antisemitism.

While there have been initiatives to include Holocaust education in the curriculum, it is important to recognise that antisemitism extends beyond the Holocaust and requires a more thorough approach. To effectively tackle antisemitism, the government must prioritise and invest in comprehensive and mandatory education programmes that encompass every aspect of antisemitism, while also promoting equality, which would help to prevent all kinds of discrimination. Let us delve into the compelling reasons why we must take a stand and make a difference.

1. Alarming Statistics:
Recent statistics reveal a disturbing trend in the UK- antisemitic hate crimes are up in London by 1,350% since October 2023 and Jewish people are 500% more likely to be a victim of a hate crime than any other faith group per capita, according to Home Office Statistics. Such figures demonstrate that Jew hatred is on the rise, making it imperative to address the issue proactively.

2. A Broader Understanding:
While Holocaust education provides crucial insights into the atrocities committed against Jews during World War II, it does not cover contemporary antisemitism. Mandatory education on antisemitism would encompass a comprehensive understanding of this hatred, allowing students to recognise and confront it in all its forms. The limited focus on the Holocaust alone fails to provide students with a thorough understanding of contemporary antisemitism, its underlying causes, and its various forms of manifestation in today's society. Currently, in huge numbers of UK schools, antisemitism is clearly present, and Jewish students often experience it.

3. Tackling Stereotypes and Prejudices:
Education is the key to challenging stereotypes and prejudices that fuel antisemitism. We can dispel myths and misconceptions by teaching students about the cultural, religious, and historical aspects of Judaism. This knowledge will foster empathy and respect, leading to a more inclusive and accepting society. The current mandatory curriculum does not cover this.

4. Prevention and Intervention:
Antisemitism education equips students with the tools necessary to prevent and address instances of Jew hatred. By teaching them to identify signs of antisemitism and intervene when they witness discrimination, we empower them to become active allies and advocates for change. Early intervention is crucial to breaking the cycle of hatred and building a society based on equality and understanding.

We cannot afford to be complacent in the face of rising antisemitism. Mandatory education about antisemitism in UK schools is a crucial step towards eradicating this hatred. By signing this petition, you are actively contributing to a future where discrimination and hatred have no place. Let us unite to create an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their faith and background, can live free from fear and persecution. 

Sign the petition today and make a lasting impact.